Oiless rotary scroll air compressor antirotation lubrication mechanism

Abstract

A lubrication apparatus for an anti-rotation assembly of an oiless rotary scroll compressor is disclosed. The scroll compressor includes a stationary scroll element and an orbiting scroll element which orbits about the stationary scroll element in a non-rotational fashion. At least one anti-rotation assembly is provided for preventing relative rotation between the orbiting and stationary scroll elements. The anti-rotation assembly, which includes a first rotational bearing component mounted on the interior of the housing, a second rotational bearing component mounted on the orbiting scroll element and an offset crank member interconnecting the first and second rotational bearing components, is lubricated via a lubrication channel. The lubrication channel extends from a lubrication port disposed on the exterior of the housing, through the first rotational bearing component, thereafter through a channel provided in the offset crank member, thus allowing the lubricating agent (e.g., grease) to reach the second rotational bearing component. The provided anti-rotation assembly can thus be periodically lubricated without significant contact between the lubricating agent and the gas being compressed (e.g., air or refrigerant). Accordingly, any possible contamination of the exiting compressed gas is significantly reduced.